MORE than 100 prison officers doffed their caps in silent tribute as they paid their final respects to popular prison warder Naomi Phipps.

Warders flanked both sides of Evesham Walk as the funeral cortege arrived led by a car carrying the coffin of the 30-year-old.

The coffin was draped with a union flag and Naomi's prison uniform hat was placed on top.

Relatives, friends and even some of the Redditch prison officers wiped away tears as the mourners filed into Emmanuel Church in the town centre.

Outside the area around the church became a carpet of floral wreaths including a giant display featuring a bumble bee in reference to Naomi's love of Winnie The Pooh.

Mourners were then led in a service of song and prayer by The Rev Barrie Cooke before hearing moving tributes from Naomi's boss at Blakenhurst prison, Governor Ferdie Parker and members of her family.

As the cortege made their way out of the church to the tune of Madonna's Lucky Star was played followed by the anthem of Blues fans Keep Right On (To The End Of The Road) in tribute to Naomi's love of Birmingham City.

Donations taken from a collection are to be sent to the charity Birmingham Open Christmas where Naomi volunteered serving Christmas lunch.

Matthew Dorman, aged 18, has been arrested and charged with Naomi's murder and is due back before Redditch magistrates next month.